Medicare Part B Premiumin NC — 2026 Costs.

The most common surprise I see with new Medicare beneficiaries: they don’t realize Part B has no out-of-pocket cap. They assume Medicare works like their employer plan with a maximum. It doesn’t. One serious illness under Original Medicare alone can cost $20,000–$50,000+ in 20% coinsurance — and there’s no ceiling. That’s why I walk every new client through the Medigap vs Medicare Advantage decision before they enroll. Either path caps your exposure, but in very different ways. If you’re approaching 65, the 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment window starting when Part B begins is the most valuable period in Medicare — guaranteed issue, lowest rates, no health questions. Miss it and you may not get another chance. Call 828-761-3324 before making any decisions.